Drought advisory lifted for Henrico, 75 other Virginia localities

With recent rainfall clearing Virginia’s drought-stricken landscape, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality recently announced that drought advisories have been lifted for 76 counties and cities throughout the commonwealth, including Henrico.

Significant drought is now no longer a reality in 8 of the 13 regions that were previously under drought watch or warning, DEQ officials said. However, the drought watch remains in effect for the Shenandoah region.

The recent rains have improved streamflow levels across the majority of the state, but groundwater levels remain below normal and require additional rain to recover. The agency is working with local governments and water users in the affected areas to ensure that water conservation and drought response plans are being followed.

The DEQ encourages all Virginians to protect water supplies by taking steps such as minimizing water use, monitoring drought conditions, and repairing leaks.